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Dhirubhai Ambani (28 December 1932 – 6 July 2002) epitomised the dauntless entrepreneurial spirit of a visionary always on the march to change the destiny of a nation. Acclaimed as the top businessman of the 20th century and lauded for his dynamic, pioneering and innovative genius, Dhirubhai was an inspiring leader with sterling qualities. His success story fired the imagination of a generation of Indian entrepreneurs, business leaders and progressive companies. For many, he still remains an icon, a role model to be emulated.

Dhirubhai’s unique vision redefined the potential of the Indian corporate sector and he challenged conventional wisdom in several areas. He was probably the first Indian businessman to recognise the strategic significance of investors and discover the vast untapped potential of the capital markets and channelize it for the growth and development of industry. The corporate philosophy he followed was short, simple and succinct: “Think big. Think differently. Think fast. Think ahead. Aim for the best.” It was under Dhirubhai’s visionary leadership the Reliance Group emerged as the largest business conglomerate in India, and carved out a distinct place for itself in the global pantheon of corporate giants.

During the course of his entrepreneurial mission, Dhirubhai set a number of revolutionary precedents. His contributions to the social and economic development of the nation were many and recognised by numerous national and international organisations. He was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan – India's second highest civilian honour – in 2016, for his ‘exceptional and distinguished’ service to trade and industry. Many other prestigious awards and titles have been conferred on him, including the Lifetime Achievement Award (The Economic Times), Man of the Century (Chemtech Foundation), Indian Entrepreneur of the 20th Century (FICCI), and many more.

He visualised the growth of Reliance as an integral part of his grand vision for India. He was convinced that India could become an economic superpower within a short period of time and wanted Reliance to play an important role in realising this goal. Today, the Group's turnover represents nearly 3 percent of India's GDP.

Our dreams have to be bigger. Our ambitions higher. Our commitment deeper. And our efforts greater. This is my dream for Reliance and for India.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

Give the youth a proper environment. Motivate them. Extend them the support they need. Each one of them has infinite sources of energy. They will deliver.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

Growth has no limit at Reliance. I keep revising my vision. Only when you dream it you can do it.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

Think big, think fast, think ahead. Ideas are no one's monopoly.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

Our dreams have to be bigger. Our ambitions higher. Our commitment deeper. And our efforts greater. This is my dream for Reliance and for India.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

You do not require an invitation to make profits.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

If you work with determination and with perfection, success will follow.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

Pursue your goals even in the face of difficulties, and convert adversities into opportunities.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

Give the youth a proper environment. Motivate them. Extend them the support they need. Each one of them has infinite source of energy. They will deliver.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

Between my past, the present and the future, there is one common factor: Relationship and Trust. This is the foundation of our growth.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

We bet on people.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

Meeting the deadlines is not good enough, beating the deadlines is my expectation.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

Don't give up. Courage is my conviction.

- Dhirubhai Ambani

Memorable Speeches

The collection of memorable speeches by Dhirubhai that shed light on his persona and also inspired scores of people to believe in their dreams: